Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters

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Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters
AbbreviationOSAPP
Founded1901
Location
Affiliations United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada

The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters is a statewide labor organization in the United States that coordinates the activities of various local unions representing plumbers and pipefitters throughout the state of Ohio, focusing on improving working conditions for its members, organizing non-union workers to join the union, providing apprenticeship training programs to teach new workers the necessary skills, and participating in political endorsements to support policies that benefit its members in areas such as workplace safety standards and fair wages within the construction and piping industries. [1] [2] As an affiliate of the national United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters assists its local chapters in collaborative initiatives that offer members comprehensive training in essential skills like installing piping systems for water supply, heating, ventilation, and industrial purposes, while also negotiating collective bargaining agreements to secure health benefits and job security for individuals entering the trades without needing advanced education beyond high school. [1] [3] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters oversees numerous local unions in major cities such as Cleveland and Columbus, offering members support through apprenticeship development programs that teach beginners the fundamentals of the trade, negotiations with employers to ensure fair treatment, and advocacy for safety regulations to protect workers on the job, all designed to expand union membership and provide stable career opportunities in skilled trades that are crucial for building and maintaining important infrastructure like water systems and heating networks across the state. [4] [5] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters plays a key role in large-scale state construction projects such as the Intel semiconductor facility, where it adapts its training curricula to meet the increased demand for skilled pipefitters and plumbers who can handle complex piping systems, thereby contributing to Ohio's substantial workforce of skilled trade professionals that supports economic growth through major infrastructure developments. [5] [2] Members of the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters perform skilled labor involving the installation and maintenance of piping systems for a variety of purposes including residential, commercial, and industrial applications, and the organization provides them with continuous education to keep pace with evolving technologies and industry standards that ensure high-quality work and safety on job sites. [6] [7] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters collaborates with other labor organizations such as the Ohio State Building & Construction Trades Council to advocate for advancements in the skilled trades, illustrating its position within the larger labor movement in Ohio that seeks to improve conditions for all construction workers. [8] [9]

Contents

History

The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters was established on April 1, 1901, at a state convention in Columbus where representatives from five local unions in Ohio came together to form a unified group that could better address employer opposition and strengthen their position in labor negotiations, during a time when early unions dealt with challenges like potential blacklisting by contractors. [1] [10] In its initial years, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters operated in a period of limited power where it even kept delegate names secret from the press to protect them from employer retaliation, but it gradually developed into a key player in inter-local cooperation and lobbying, for example by pushing for equal union representation on plumbing examining boards and low license fees in legislative debates around plumbing codes from 1899 to 1900. [11] [12] By the middle of the twentieth century, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters had expanded its reach through mergers of local unions, such as when Plumbers and Pipefitters Local No. 723 from Chillicothe joined the Columbus-based Local 189 in 1969, which allowed for better resource sharing and greater influence in central Ohio while following the national United Association's focus on skilled work and worker unity. [13] [9] The history of the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters also includes active organizing drives in the 1970s, like appointing Frank Burns as a full-time organizer in 1974 under the direction of national representative Bill Crellen to target non-union firms such as Croson Plumbing and Heating, showing its dedication to increasing membership and bringing more workers under union protections despite rising competition from non-union labor in the field. [7] [14] Throughout the twentieth century, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters added to the overall labor movement in Ohio by joining state-wide efforts that drew from the pictured history of Ohio workers from 1803 to 1980, where unionizing focused on solidarity and power to tackle economic issues faced by tradespeople in the state. [9] [15] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters' evolution mirrors wider shifts in American labor history, where trade unions like those for plumbers and pipefitters transitioned from local entities to state and national structures to more effectively counter industrial changes and employer strategies that threatened worker rights and job security. [10] [12] Over time, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has addressed health challenges for its members, such as elevated mortality rates from diseases associated with asbestos exposure in plumbing and pipefitting work, which has prompted ongoing advocacy for enhanced safety measures that have become integral to its organizational legacy. [6] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters traces its origins to the broader labor movement in Ohio, where local unions for plumbers and pipefitters began forming in the late nineteenth century to combat low wages and unsafe conditions, eventually consolidating under state-level associations to amplify their voice in negotiations with employers and policymakers. [9] [14] The formation of the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters was part of a national trend in the pipe trades, where unions sought to establish professional standards and protect workers from exploitative practices common in the industry during the early twentieth century. [16] Historical records from government agencies document the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters' involvement in labor disputes and elections since the early 2000s, illustrating its ongoing efforts to expand membership and protect employee rights in the plumbing and pipefitting fields. [17] [18]

Activities

The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters engages in organizing non-union workers to bring them under union contracts, as evidenced by successful efforts where organizers helped secure back wages for pipefitters owed by subcontractors, thereby ensuring fair compensation and reinforcing the value of union membership for beginners in the trade who learn through hands-on apprenticeships. [19] [7] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters hosts annual events like apprenticeship contests to showcase and develop trade skills, such as the three-day Ohio State Apprenticeship Contest held at local training centers where participants demonstrate proficiency in plumbing and pipefitting tasks, helping to prepare new workers for careers in the industry while fostering competition and community among members. [20] In response to major economic developments like the Intel construction project in Ohio, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has adapted its training curriculum to meet increased demand for skilled pipefitters and plumbers, contributing to the state's pool of approximately 100,000 skilled trade workers across 137 unions by emphasizing recruitment and education to fill thousands of positions in mega projects involving piping for technology and manufacturing facilities. [5] [2] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters supports community initiatives, including collaborations with colleges to promote careers in the skilled trades, where representatives from the association serve on boards to guide programs that prepare students for jobs in plumbing and related fields. [21] [22] The group also participates in community outreach and educational initiatives, such as endorsements for local levies related to mental health and recovery services, as demonstrated by local affiliates like Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 396 backing such measures to benefit the broader public while highlighting the union's role in civic engagement. [22] Additionally, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters engages in broader labor advocacy, such as supporting pipeline projects through public testimonies and rallies, where union representatives emphasize the economic benefits of infrastructure development for job creation and energy independence in the state. [23] The association's activities include organizing events and conventions where members can network, learn about new industry technologies, and hear from guest speakers on topics related to labor rights and economic development in Ohio, fostering a sense of community among workers in the trades. [24] [19]

Political involvement

The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters is actively involved in politics through its political action committee, which collects contributions from members to donate to candidates from both major parties who support labor-friendly policies, as evidenced by its $338,625 in donations to Ohio lawmakers in 2021, placing it among the top political contributors in the state that year. [25] The association has a history of bipartisan endorsements, including supporting Republican Governor Mike DeWine in his 2022 reelection bid against a Democratic challenger, while also contributing to other statewide candidates and lawmakers who advocate for issues like job creation and worker rights in the trades sector. [26] [27] In recent elections, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has split its support between Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Sherrod Brown, with Ramaswamy speaking at the union's convention in July 2025 to discuss partnerships for strengthening opportunities for working families, highlighting the group's willingness to endorse based on policy alignment rather than strict party lines. [27] [4] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters' political involvement extends to legislative advocacy, where it provides testimony on bills affecting commerce and labor, such as supporting House Bill 246 and offering input on measures like House Bill 181 and House Bill 327 to protect union rights and improve industry standards in Ohio. [28] [29] Through these efforts, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has influenced state politics by backing candidates like Ramaswamy, who received endorsements from multiple unions including this one, emphasizing its role in breaking from traditional Democratic support to prioritize issues important to plumbers and pipefitters such as economic development and infrastructure investment. [30] [31] The association's political contributions are documented in government filings, revealing transparent financial support aimed at advancing labor objectives in Ohio. [32] [33] In legal proceedings, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has been involved in labor disputes reviewed by federal agencies, underscoring its role in defending member rights against unfair practices. [34] [17] The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has provided testimony in state legislative committees on bills impacting commerce and labor, such as supporting measures that safeguard union interests and elevate industry standards. [35] The group has opposed certain legislative changes that could undermine union rights, as evidenced by their official submissions to lawmakers. [36]

Health and safety

The Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has addressed health concerns for its members, advocating for improved safety standards and protective measures in the industry. [6] Through its history, the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters has advocated for enhanced health benefits and safety training in collective bargaining agreements, recognizing the risks associated with materials like lead and asbestos that workers encounter in pipe installation and maintenance. [7] [6] The association partners with the national United Association to develop programs that educate members on health risks and prevention strategies, contributing to overall improvements in worker safety within the plumbing and pipefitting trades across Ohio. [9] Research on safety orientation and training programs for plumbers and pipefitters, including those in Ohio, demonstrates how effective education can reduce injuries, supporting the association's emphasis on safety as a core activity. [37]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Schneirov, Richard (1993). Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889–1989. ILR Press. p. 55. ISBN   978-0-87546-306-3 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  2. 1 2 3 "Union sees an Intel impact on pipe fitter, plumber careers". Spectrum News. 6 September 2022. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  3. ↑ "Al Winters Discusses Opportunities To Enter The Trades As a Plumber or Pipe Fitter". Future Plans. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  4. 1 2 "Ohio Plumbers Pipefitters union endorses Vivek Ramaswamy". New India Abroad. 19 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  5. 1 2 3 "Trades triple efforts to keep up with Intel construction demand". Spectrum News. 17 February 2023. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  6. 1 2 3 4 Robinson, C F; Burnett, C A (2004). "Mortality patterns of United States female construction workers". Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene. 19 (2). Taylor & Francis: 128–131. doi:10.1080/15459620490424410. PMID   15204872 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  7. 1 2 3 4 Schneirov, Richard (1993). Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889–1989. ILR Press. p. 122. ISBN   978-0-87546-306-3 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  8. ↑ "Unions place early bets on Republicans in key Ohio races". NBC News. 12 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  9. 1 2 3 4 5 Boryczka, Raymond; Cary, Lorin Lee (1982). No Strength Without Union: An Illustrated History of Ohio Workers, 1803-1980. Ohio Historical Society. ISBN   978-0-87758-012-6 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  10. 1 2 Erlich, Mark (1994). "Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889-1989". Business History Review. 68 (2). Cambridge University Press: 303–304. doi:10.2307/3117445. JSTOR   3117445 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  11. ↑ Schneirov, Richard (1993). Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889–1989. ILR Press. pp. 53, 55. ISBN   978-0-87546-306-3 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  12. 1 2 Perlman, Mark (1994). "Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889-1989". Journal of Economic History. 54 (1). Cambridge University Press: 224–225. doi:10.1017/S0022050700014272 (inactive 22 September 2025). JSTOR   3378354 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of September 2025 (link)
  13. ↑ Schneirov, Richard (1993). Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889–1989. ILR Press. ISBN   978-0-87546-306-3 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  14. 1 2 Van Tine, Warren (1995). "Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889-1989". Ohio History. 104. Ohio History Connection: 103–104. JSTOR   25143876 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  15. ↑ McCaffery, George (1983). "No Strength Without Union: An Illustrated History of Ohio Workers, 1803-1980". Business History Review. 57 (3). Cambridge University Press: 458–459. doi:10.2307/3114056. JSTOR   3114056 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  16. ↑ Schneirov, Richard (1993). Pride and Solidarity: A History of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Columbus, Ohio, 1889–1989. ILR Press. p. 53. ISBN   978-0-87546-306-3 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  17. 1 2 "V.I.P. Plumbing Inc". National Labor Relations Board. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  18. ↑ "BRENMAR CONSTRUCTION INC". National Labor Relations Board. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  19. 1 2 "Ohio State Association Organizers win settlement for non-union workers". United Association. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  20. ↑ "Contest showcases trade skills". The Vindicator. 19 April 2023. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  21. ↑ "Board of Trustees". Lorain County Community College. 9 June 2016. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  22. 1 2 "Local plumber and pipefitter union endorses Issue 3 levy renewal". WFMJ. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  23. ↑ "Unions Pack the House In Support of Ohio Pipeline". Energy In Depth. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  24. ↑ "Ohio Secretary of State Week in Review For The Week Ending July 25, 2025". Ohio Secretary of State. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  25. ↑ "Who funded Ohio Statehouse politics in 2021?". Ohio Capital Journal. 3 February 2022. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  26. ↑ "Ohio plumbers, pipefitters union endorses DeWine-Husted ticket". The Chronicle-Telegram. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  27. 1 2 "Some Ohio unions split endorsements between Ramaswamy, Brown". The Columbus Dispatch. 18 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  28. ↑ "House Bill 246 Committee Activity". Ohio Legislature. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  29. ↑ "House Bill 327 Committee". Ohio House of Representatives. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  30. ↑ "Ohio Teamsters union endorses Ramaswamy in gubernatorial race". Fox News. 20 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  31. ↑ "Ohio Teamsters union endorses Ramaswamy in gubernatorial race". Yahoo News. 20 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  32. ↑ "066-692 (LM2) 03/31/2022". U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  33. ↑ "000-111 (LM2) 06/30/2021". U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  34. ↑ "Ohio State Association of Journeymen Plumbers and Pipefitters (Marvin W. Mielke, Inc.)". National Labor Relations Board. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  35. ↑ "Testimony of the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters". Ohio Legislature. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  36. ↑ "Testimony of the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters". Ohio Legislature. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  37. ↑ Kinnunen, D R; Retrum, J H (2001). "Evaluation of Safety Orientation and Training Programs for Reducing Injuries in the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry". Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 43 (12). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: 1036–1041. doi:10.1097/00043764-200112000-00005. PMID   11765674 . Retrieved 22 September 2025.
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